Overview & Reviews

The Toyota Matrix was essentially a tall yet compact wagon, with a dash of cool, sporty style thrown in. It was typically marketed toward younger shoppers, though buyers of all ages were drawn to this car's many desirable attributes. Based on the Corolla sedan of its time, the Matrix was exceptionally versatile and well suited for hauling bulky cargo or transporting adult-sized passengers.

The main downside to the Matrix was that, apart from the relatively rare XRS variant, it was never particularly rewarding to drive. But for the practical-minded, this will likely be of little concern. Toyota sold two generations of the Matrix, and both boasted high fuel economy, a smooth ride, a roomy cabin, available all-wheel drive and reliable Toyota genes. Overall we think the Matrix is one of the best choices available for a used small wagon or hatchback.

Used Toyota Matrix Models

The second generation of the Toyota Matrix was produced from 2009-'13. Initial trim levels consisted of base, midlevel S and sporty, top-dog XRS.

The base model was powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder with 132 horsepower and 128 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission was standard and a four-speed automatic was optional -- both driving the front wheels. Upgrading to the Matrix S or XRS got you a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 158 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque. The S also offered an all-wheel-drive option. With this engine and front-wheel drive, one could choose between a five-speed manual or an optional five-speed automatic, while the AWD version only came with a four-speed automatic.

Standard feature highlights for the base L trim initially included air-conditioning, a 60/40-split/folding rear seat, a fold-flat front passenger seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, CD player and an auxiliary audio jack. Besides the more powerful engine, the Matrix S gained a rear wiper, full power accessories, cruise control, keyless entry and a premium audio system. The AWD version of the S gained foglights and an independent rear suspension. The Matrix XRS featured 18-inch alloy wheels, a roof spoiler, sport-tuned suspension and steering, upgraded seat fabric and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Key options, depending on trim level, included a sunroof, a JBL sound system, satellite radio and a navigation system. More standard features, such as full power accessories and cruise control for the base trim, were fitted as the years progressed.

Inside, the Matrix had enough space to carry items up to 8 feet long, and the cargo area's durable plastic load floor allowed one to transport a variety of items, from home improvement materials to bicycles to a kayak. It was also pretty comfortable for both front and rear passengers. The very easy-to-use controls were another positive.

On the road, the base Toyota Matrix was a bit pokey in terms of acceleration, though its engine did provide pretty good fuel economy. The extra torque from the 2.4-liter engine made the driving experience more relaxed, particularly in regards to passing. Driven around corners, the Matrix was balanced and predictable, and overall ride quality was very comfortable. Still, the second-generation Matrix was not a very exciting car to pilot, largely due to its numb-feeling steering.

Changes throughout the Matrix's second generation were usually minor, consisting of added standard features and shuffling of  trim levels. Stability control became standard for 2010 but the XRS and its sport-tuned suspension were discontinued for 2011. For 2012, Toyota renamed the base version the L.

The first-generation Toyota Matrix was introduced for the 2003 model year and ran until 2008. Toyota offered it in base, XR and XRS trim levels. The lower two trims came with a 130-hp, 1.8-liter engine and either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. The XRS came with a high-winding 180-hp 1.8-liter engine and an exclusive six-speed manual transmission. In 2006, the XRS' final year, the engine was re-rated to 164 hp due to new testing procedures, but actual performance was unchanged.

 In editorial reviews, we noted that the 1.8-liter equipped Matrix offered adequate acceleration in most circumstances, but its dearth of low-end torque was apparent on uphill grades. Manual-equipped Matrix wagons tended to offer more pep than those equipped with automatic transmissions. Handling was somewhat less than engaging; still, commuters and road trippers will likely appreciate the wagon's smooth, comfortable ride.

Inside, this Matrix charmed with its solid quality and versatility. Fit and finish was above average, and the cargo area and backside of the rear seats were finished with an easy-to-clean plastic as well as specialized cargo tracks.

If you're interested in a used first-generation Toyota Matrix, there are a few things to keep in mind. First of all, early Matrix models were missing a couple of important safety features: side airbags and stability control. These features were added (as options) in model-year 2005. Also note that stability control was offered only on models equipped with an automatic transmission. You also might encounter all-wheel-drive versions of the Matrix or Matrix XR; they produced slightly less power and came with the automatic only. All-wheel drive was discontinued for the 2007 model year.

User Reviews:

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  A great family car! - 2009 Toyota Matrix
  By Anna - March 1 - 10:23 pm

  I was looking for a combination of best gas mileage, reliability, cargo space, practicality and a sporty look. I have to be able to see myself still driving this vehicle over 8 years from now since this is a long term investment for me. I had a great purchase experience from the dealer, which is sometimes hard to believe from experience, but they were very helpful. I am 52 and the flexibility of moving the driver seat higher is a plus. Its easy to maneuver and getting the kids in and out of the car is so easy. Plenty of cargo space for a stroller, grocery bags and kids sport stuff. I am so proud of this cars practicality mixed with sportiness appeal. Thank you Toyota

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  Matrix, a class by its own...... - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By Ziggy - March 1 - 5:40 am

  driving this one of a kind vehicle in its own class is quite intriguing with me. Besides purshasing at a reasonable price is well deserving.It should if not pass the rate of the corolla.

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  Yes Sir, I Like It! - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By fldnyc - February 28 - 10:00 am

  I love the versatility of the car. I really like its looks, and theres plenty of room. For the money, what a great car.

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  I LOVE MY MATRIX - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By NIN - February 15 - 10:56 am

  Car is excellent on gas.... great for moms like me with active kids.... big cargo for groceries. I downsized from the Toyota sienna... also an excellent auto... just too big for me... no more strollers or diaper bags to lug around... matrix doesnt look like the big wagon from the 70s. Nice and sporty for the on the go mom.

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  07 Matrix - 2007 Toyota Matrix
  By aaabutch - February 14 - 3:10 pm

  This is my first car since 1972 or so, I cant remember, and that was a Toyota Corolla/great car that gave me 41 MPG on highways thru Texas. Great car and I never forgot it. I have been driving vans and trucks since and this year we decided to by a car and I went to the Corolla first and then to all the competitors too I test drove them all and wound up with the Matrix, drives like the Corolla and had tons of room with seats that go down and even the front passenger seat goes down. To make a long story short we love the Matrix and our first tank of gas on the highway with the air going did 37.3 MPG Next tank was city at 30. Third tank 33 city & hway. What can I say.

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  Spunky car - 2005 Toyota Matrix
  By cmpchicky - February 14 - 11:40 am

  The XRS model is good for those who love to drive. The fuel economy can be better - it requires fuel with octanes of 91 or higher. It could hurt the wallet if you drive a lot. Otherwise, i love it.

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  Great Small Wagon - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By George - February 12 - 3:13 am

  I just turn in my leased Matrix, and it has been a great small car for me at the time when I lease it. It has a lot of room when the back seat and the front Pass. seat are all folded down to help me move. Great little city car. It was avg. for gas 33MPG traveling to and from work. Only one thing happened, the front right shock was bad when the car was first new and that was quickly replaced for free. No other trouble with the car. I just follow the book when to do all the services.

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  Pretty fun car, perhaps. - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By noonan_99 - February 10 - 2:00 am

  Styling is okay - love or hate. I love it first, but I only like it now as I find that I love the new BBX of Scion (new wing of Toyota) better. Look aside, seating is pretty comfortable to me, except I dislike the way the power door locks are located, it makes my hand sore because of the angle.

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  16K miles and still happy - 2003 Toyota Matrix
  By trixfan - February 5 - 10:00 am

  This is a great all-around vehicle for carrying lots of stuff or people, especially for long trips. It is very peppy around town. The interior has lots of space and headroom to spread out without feeling cramped. I love the seats; it has a much more spacious back seat than any other hatch. There is body roll in tight turns, but the suspension is very tenacious. If you check Edmunds six-car comparo, look at slalom numbers:it was within 0.3 mph of the Mazda Pro5, and handily beat everything else in the test! Yet it still damps bad pavement and potholes really well. SUV space with the performance, emissions, and fuel economy of a car and Toyota reliability.

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  145,000 & still going strong!! - 2004 Toyota Matrix
  By Chadwicked - February 2 - 3:16 pm

  I got the car in late 2003 brand new. If you keep up with oil changes and tire rotations youll be able to drive it forever. Its got well over 100,000 miles on it and Ive never had a problem with it unless you refer to a headlight bulb and battery I had to change almost 5 years later, other than that, no complaints.